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    Billie Holiday’s NYC Townhouse Just Hit the Market for $14 Million

    This New York City brownstone is the epitome of easy living.

    The former Upper West Side townhome of jazz legend Billie Holiday has just come onto the market and if you want to get your hands on the late singer’s historic digs, it’ll cost you close to $14 million. Listed with Douglas Elliman, the Renaissance Revival residence was recently renovated and received a few practical upgrades along the way. Although, it still maintains many of the original finishes from when it was built in the early 1900s. Holiday was said to have lived on the first floor during the last years of her life before she died in 1959. It’s also where she released her penultimate album, Lady in Satin.

    The 20-foot-wide, 6,300-square-foot townhouse is spread across six levels and comprises seven bedrooms, six bathrooms and two powder rooms. Modifications came about in 2017 when architect Amie Sachs and interior designer Fawn Galli were brought on to breathe new life into the space. Today, among its modern conveniences are a screening room with wallpaper designed by Lenny Kravitz, a temperature-controlled wine cellar and a curated backyard garden. Inside, you’ll also notice a ton of old-world detailing has been preserved. Think original mahogany doors, wood paneling and 10- to 12-foot ceilings.

    Billie Holiday’s former Upper West Side townhome has just listed for $13.9 million 

    Evan Joseph Photography

    On the parlor floor is a striking foyer that has a sparkling chandelier and herringbone oak flooring. Off the swanky main entry is the living room which comes with a soaring carved plaster ceiling and a stately fireplace. Nearby is a private office and state-of-the-art kitchen that’s been outfitted with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Bertazzoni range, two Fisher and Paykel dishwashers, marble countertops and a full wet bar. A formal dining room and powder room are also found on this level.
    Upstairs, the third floor is done up as a 1,100-square-foot primary suite. But honestly, it’s more like a personal sanctuary. Perks include a dressing room, fireplace and an uber-luxurious bathroom room that’s been decked out with heated floors, a soaking tub and marble detailing. You’ll also have access to your own private library. Elsewhere in the house is a skylight that exposes the arched brick abode to an ample amount of sun.

    The New York City townhouse was renovated in 2017 and comprises seven bedrooms and six baths 

    Evan Joseph Photography

    “Legacy properties always have a certain allure and cachet, especially in New York City,” listing agent Kelly Killoren Bensimon tells Mansion Global in an email. “New Yorkers love and adore their icons. Knowing that one of the most beloved storytellers of our time lived in a residence is a very strong selling point.”
    Click here to see all the photos of Billie Holiday’s former Upper West Side townhouse.

    Evan Joseph Photography More

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    Courtney Love’s 19th Century NYC Townhome Hits the Market for $23 Million

    If only the walls of the West Village townhouse could talk.   

    An Italianate-style townhome that once hosted Courtney Love, singer and widow of Nirvana frontman, Kurt Cobain, has just hit the market. Listed by Douglas Elliman’s Keren Ringler, the lavish New York City rowhouse was built in 1856 by Linus Scudder. According to the listing, Scudder had plans to use the structure as his personal dwelling. It sits on a tree-lined street next to several other 19th-century abodes that the mason also built. Today, the for-sale residence spans five stories and features six bedrooms, five bathrooms and its own private garden.  

    Despite the building’s age and layout—it’s only 22 feet wide—it offers a surprisingly modern feel with a dose of period elegance. There are 12-foot-high ceilings, extra tall windows, marble fireplaces and elaborate crown moldings throughout, maintained to preserve its sense of period grandeur. Wide plank oak wood floors are featured throughout. Of all the old-world details, the original staircase and intact stoop are the real showstoppers and have been beautifully maintained.  

    The former West Village townhome of Courtney Love hits the market for $22.9 million 

    Courtesy of Douglas Elliman

    On the garden level of this single-family pad are an open concept dining room and sitting area. Running parallel is the kitchen—there’s also a sunroom, bedroom and one and a half bathrooms. Naturally, you’ll have access to the outdoors here, where a lush patio and covered porch await. The parlor floor is filled with natural light and holds a formal dining room, a newly renovated kitchen and full bath.   

    The 19th-century townhome was built in 1856 by Linus Scudder 

    Courtesy of Douglas Elliman

    Upstairs, the sunny third and fourth levels each have two bedrooms, full bathrooms and perhaps most importantly, ample amounts of closet space. Additionally, an office could also function as a nursery or den, depending on your needs. The pinnacle of this stunning townhouse is a spacious fifth floor complemented by soaring ceilings and walls of windows. It encompasses a renovated studio, full bathroom and kitchenette. A dramatic skylight is among the enviable amenities, in addition to a prized roof deck.   
    Think you have what it takes to live the free-spirited rockstar once did? The five-story townhome will set you back $22.9 million. 
    Click here to see all the photos of Courtney Love’s former West Village townhouse.

    Courtesy of Douglas Elliman More

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    Home of the Week: Inside Greta Garbo’s Elegant $7.25 Million NYC Home

    Consider it your very own Grand Hotel. The former New York City residence of the late Swedish-American actress Greta Garbo is once again up for sale. Housed in a co-op called the Campanile, located on 450 East 52nd Street, the residence retains many retro features from when Garbo lived there. She first purchased the place in 1954 and called it home until her death in 1990.

    The actress, who was known for films in the 1920s and 1930s, including Grand Hotel, Camille and more, used the home as her primary residence, and her niece, Gray, later inherited the apartment. Garbo attracted many buyers to the building and even drove up the price of units. The star was initially attracted to the residence for the views of the East River, as the water and boats reminded her of her hometown of Stockholm. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home has views of the river in nearly each room, whether the grand living room or the bedrooms.

    The formal dining room 

    DDreps

    The residence features a private elevator lobby that opens into a formal gallery and continues into an L-shaped, wood-paneled living room with immaculate river views. Everything from the sumptuous carpeting to the drapery feels exceptionally elegant. The living room was supposedly Garbo’s favorite room in the home, and it’s the ideal spot for future owners to enjoy the views and relaxing in front of the beautiful gas fireplace. There is also a balcony off the French doors that overlooks the East River, and a library.
    While the 2,900-square-foot residence has been modernly updated, there are several remaining features that tell the story of a bygone era, including the Fortuny silk headboard and walls in the primary suite that Garbo installed. Her favorite rose-colored silk was used as her headboard while she lived there and is a beautiful, timeless element still today. The former owners also updated the home with Scandinavian-inspired elements, a nod to Garbo’s heritage, including a formal dining room with plenty of natural light.

    Each room has fantastic East River views. 

    DDreps

    “Garbo is forever a legend,” says co-listing agent Brian K. Lewis of Compass. “Her stunning former home is upgraded and perfectly suited for today’s lucky buyer — yet it still enjoys the wonderful essence of Garbo. Dramatic views, a larger-than-life scale and smartly elegant finishes make this a world class opportunity to own a legendary home.”

    Other vestiges of Garbo’s legacy include colorful rugs she designed, one of which is located in a bedroom with double beds. There are also built-in shelves that she installed when she lived in the residence. The modern updates, meanwhile, include a renovated kitchen, dining room, bathrooms and a new HVAC system.

    The primary bedroom with rose-colored Fortuny silk wall coverings and headboard 

    DDreps

    “The home has the grace, grandeur and glamour that defined Garbo,” says co-listing agent Will Kerr of Corcoran. “And while her legacy is an important part of the home’s history, it’s cinematic water and city views also make it truly special. Perfectly perched above the East River, when you are in the home, you feel like the captain of a ship. Every room benefits from a different perspective of the water, and these spectacular views give it a unique energy. That is what drew Garbo to the home, was important to the current owners and will surely amaze its next stewards.”
    The chic space has been tastefully decorated and restored and offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a home from a renowned Hollywood legend.
    Check out more photos of the property below:

    The renovated kitchen 

    DDreps

    One of the bedroom features a rug designed by Garbo herself 

    DDreps

    The gas fireplace in the living room 

    DDreps

    The study 

    DDreps

    Views over the East River 

    DDreps

    The wood paneling from Garbo’s original design remains. 

    DDreps

    Another view of the living room. 

    DDreps More

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    Leaving on a Prayer? Jon Bon Jovi Just Unloaded His Manhattan Condo for $22 Million

    Rocker Jon Bon Jovi is saying goodbye to his spacious Manhattan apartment, which just sold for $22 million.

    Tucked between the charming downtown Manhattan neighborhoods Greenwich Village and West Village, the 4,000-square-foot home has four bedrooms and panoramic views of downtown and the Hudson River. The unit offers incredible natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows and, because it’s a corner unit, there are southern, western and eastern exposures. The large unit also has high ceilings, which make it feel even more spacious. By night, the recessed lighting creates a beautiful ambience and lets the city take center stage. 

    Jon Bon Jovi first purchased the unit in 2017. 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    The residence is accessed via a private elevator, which opens into a vestibule entry and an arrival gallery. Most impressive is the 40-foot living room, wrapped in windows, that leads to Juliet balconies. There’s also a balcony off of the eat-in chef’s kitchen, which is outfitted with state-of-the-art Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele appliances. Sleek and contemporary, it has custom walnut-paneled cabinets and grey marble countertops. The entire apartment also has gleaming oak hardwood floors throughout.

    The primary suite 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    The primary suite has exceptional views over Manhattan, with south and east exposures, and has a very large walk-in closet. The windowed, marble bathroom is magnificent and has a deep soaking tub looking out at the skyline. Other bedrooms also have generous closets and en-suite bathrooms, and the powder room has marble mosaic flooring. Additional perks include an office and a wine cooler.

    The living room spans 40 feet and has Juliet balconies. 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    Located at 155 West 11th Street, Unit 14A is situated within luxury complex the Greenwich Lane, known for attracting an A-list clientele; past residents include former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, Jimmy Choo co-founder Tamara Mellon and Dexter actor Michael C. Hall. The development has five buildings and five townhouses connected via a central courtyard. The building has all the amenities residents need, including a full-time doorman, concierge, gym, pool and golf room. Greenwich Village is also home to incredible restaurants and provides nearby access to the Hudson River Park.
    The Jersey-born Bon Jovi first purchased the unit in 2017 for $18.94 million. According to WSJ, he was no stranger to the neighborhood, either: In 2018, he sold a nearby West Village apartment for around $15.95 million. It remains to be seen if the musician will pick-up another residence in the area—or in Manhattan at all—or if he’s keeping his roots planted in the Garden State.

    Check out more photos of the property below:

    The windowed primary bathroom welcomes plenty of natural light. 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    The corner unit offers southern, western, and eastern exposures through floor-to-ceiling windows. 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    Office 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass

    There are several Juliet balconies within the unit. 

    Shannon Dupré/Compass More

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    Richard Gere Lists His Idyllic 50-Acre Hudson Valley Estate for $28 Million

    Richard Gere has listed the sprawling upstate New York compound he’s owned for more than 20 years. 

    The actor first purchased the property in 1986 and, over the years, created multiple structures on the 48.7 acres. The main New England-style residence is the largest at 11,658 square feet, and houses eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms and two half-baths. Located in picturesque Pound Ridge, New York, just 50 miles (or about an hour) from New York City, the property has been listed for $28 million by Muffin Dowdle of Ginnel Real Estate. 

    The living room of the main house 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    Even those not in the public eye will relish in the privacy of the property. It’s all but completely shielded from the outside world, as 4,300 acres of protected land border the grounds. With its expansive lawns and ample space, the bucolic estate is ideal for equestrians and those who enjoy spending time outdoors; it’s particularly idyllic as a summer escape, as it’s a quieter, if not more beautiful, alternative to the Hamptons.

    The kitchen 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    Outdoor enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the rolling hills, perfect for horseback riding; the hidden soccer field; the mature weeping willows; the vegetable garden; the pool; and the private lake with a sandy beach and island. Elsewhere on the estate are stables and five other structures, including secondary residences, a barn and a shed.  

    The view from the terrace 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    The main residence has three stories and plenty of colonial-style charm, but with updated furnishings, appliances and technology. Natural light spills into all 19 rooms for a bright and airy vibe, whether you’re enjoying a cup of tea and a book in the formal living room or jamming out in the music room.
    Gere and his wife, Alejandra Silva, who married in 2018, recently moved to nearby town North Salem, where they purchased a property last year for around $9.8 million. The Pretty Woman actor and his wife moved to the new home after welcoming children.
    Check out more images of the estate below:

    One of the bedrooms 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    One of nine bathrooms 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    The pool 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    The music room 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    The barn 

    Ginnel Real Estate

    An aerial shot of the estate 

    Ginnel Real Estate More

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    John Legend and Chrissy Teigen Are Selling Their Two NYC Penthouses for a Combined $18 Million

    John Legend and Chrissy Teigen are bidding adieu to not one but two properties in New York City. The couple purchased the penthouses in the same building with the intention of one day combining them into one duplex unit, but never got around to pulling the trigger. Now the singer-songwriter and model are listing the parcel for $18 million.

    Teigen and Legend didn’t buy both units at once: They snapped up one for $9 million in 2018 and the other for $7.7 million in 2020. The properties are both located in Brewster Carriage House, a historic building that was once home to, you guessed it, a horse carriage company. The 150-year-old structure was converted into condos in 2012.

    The living room 

    Photo: Tina Gallo

    Once combined, the duplex penthouse will comprise about 6,100 interior square feet. Standout features include the kitchen, which is custom and fitted out with Miele appliances, as well as the white-oak floors throughout the home. There are three gas fireplaces in the penthouse, plus a wine refrigerator and heated flooring in the bathrooms.

    The kitchen 

    Photo: Tina Gallo

    Fine and great, but one of the biggest selling points is almost certainly the outdoor space, something that buyers are thinking of more than ever in the wake of 2020’s shelter-in-place orders. Thankfully, this property has a sprawling, 3,300-square-foot rooftop terrace for entertaining, complete with its own irrigation system and grill.

    A lounge area 

    Photo: Tina Gallo

    Why leave it all behind? Legend and Teigen are reportedly spending more time on the West Coast these days, and so a New York City project like this one no longer makes sense. The couple have certainly made moves in California as of late, selling their Beverly Hills home where Rihanna once lived for $16.8 million 2021 and snapping up a new mansion nearby for $17.5 million.

    One of the bedrooms 

    Photo: Tina Gallo

    Still, there’s a chance that the couple may return to the Big Apple in the near future. “I miss it all the time,” Legend told The Wall Street Journal. “New York is always going to be my favorite city.” More